Which of the following breeding techniques utilizes gene banking?

Cloning is the breeding technique that utilizes gene banking because it involves the use of preserved genetic material, such as DNA or cells, from a specific individual to produce a genetic copy. This process is reliant on gene banks, which store genetic resources, including the genetic material of livestock. The preservation of this genetic material allows for the replication of desirable traits without needing to breed animals conventionally.

In contrast, artificial insemination involves introducing sperm into the reproductive tract of a female and does not directly rely on gene storage, though it may use frozen sperm made available through gene banking. Crossbreeding refers to the practice of breeding animals from different breeds to produce hybrids, focusing on combining traits rather than using preserved genetic samples. Selective breeding is the process of choosing specific animals for reproduction based on desired traits, but again, it does not inherently require gene banking for the methodology itself. Therefore, cloning stands out as the only technique that directly depends on the use of gene banking to achieve its aims.